St Oswald’s pupils celebrate their differences

Inclusivity and individuality were firmly on the timetable, when pupils at St Oswald’s Catholic Primary in Gosforth came together for a special celebration.

All year groups at the school took part in Diversity and Uniqueness Day, swapping their uniforms for clothing that reflected their identity, from traditional or cultural dress, to colours linked to their heritage, or outfits related to a particular interest or belief.

Inspired by the book What Makes Me a Me? by Ben Faulk and David Tazzyman, the event on Thursday 15 January was organised by Deputy Headteacher Katie Morris.

“To support this celebration, we invited all children to come to school wearing clothes that reflect part of their identity,” she said.

“Children were also invited to bring in a small item that represented their identity. This might be something important to their faith, culture, or heritage, an item linked to family history or values, or an object that they feel represents who they are – this could be linked to a talent or a gift.

“During the day, there was dedicated time for children to share their items within their class if they wished to do so.”

There were also different activities on offer across the day, so that the pupils could deepen their understanding of the importance of identity, tolerance, and inclusivity. These included music, flag-making, and story-telling.

“Throughout the day, children took part in a range of activities designed to help them explore and celebrate their own identities, as well as learn about and respect the identities of others’,” continued Mrs Morris.

“Children took part in a Music from Around the World Workshop with Diocesan Chorister Eimear Hurley, as well as creating flags that they felt best represented their identity, which will be proudly displayed in school.

“We read a variety of stories linked to different cultures and identities throughout the day, and the children really enjoyed learning new things about their classmates.”

“We understand that every family’s story is different, and children were welcome to interpret ‘identity’ in their own way. We endeavoured to ensure that all children were supported to feel comfortable, included, and proud of who they are,” she added.

“This special day was an opportunity for us to celebrate the wonderful diversity within our school, and to recognise that every child is unique, valued, and important.”